Campello Keith marks 100 years

Ten area businessmen from five Swedish churches organized a fuel company in 1907 to serve their parishioners.

Today, Campello Keith Oil Co. continues to serve Brockton and surrounding communities from its headquarters at 74 Plain St.

That is where hundreds gathered Friday to celebrate the company's 100th anniversary, a milestone marked Thursday with another gathering at Halifax Mobile Estates, where the company serves hundreds of residents.

“The company started with two horses, two wagons, two harnesses, two sleds, two horse blankets, two storm blankets — all purchased for less than $22,” credit manager Gary Leonard said Friday as he prepared to welcome guests for the noon cookout.

The company has remained in the city's south side, relocating from its original location on Perkins Avenue to 74 Plain St. where there are currently 11 employees.

“We have very loyal customers,” Leonard said, “and we're lucky enough to have colleagues from other oil companies to keep the industry strong.”